After a two-year hiatus, the Chicago Air and Water Show, a beloved Chicago tradition for decades, returns to the city’s lakefront on August 20 and 21. Established in 1959 and one of the largest free admission events of its kind, headliners of the 2022 show include the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, who are dedicating their performances to the memory of Rudy Malnati, Jr. With the thrill and excitement of vintage and modern aircraft soaring overhead, the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), want to offer the millions of expected visitors a few small tips to help everyone enjoy the show.
• The prime viewing location for the Chicago Air and Water Show is on the lakefront from Oak Street to Fullerton Avenue with the show’s focal point being North Avenue Beach. The lakefront will be open to the public beginning at 6 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
• Refreshment options will be plentiful, with food vendors located up and down the lakefront, along with plenty of restroom facilities, including in the North Avenue Beach House and portable facilities scattered throughout the primary viewing area.
• Spectators are encouraged to bring a hat, binoculars, chairs, plenty of sunscreen and earplugs, especially for children and those who are have hearing sensitivities, due to heightened noise levels from the low-flying, supersonic stunt aircraft. Chicago beaches can also be quite hot, so a personal cooler with water and ice is also recommended.
• Herb Hunter, the long-time official announcer of the Chicago Air and Water Show, returns to the booth this year and his commentary can be heard from Oak Street Beach to Fullerton Beach. In addition, WBBM Newsradio 780 / 105.9 will broadcast the show live Saturday and Sunday, on both the radio and the free Audacy app.
• The following items are prohibited on show grounds at North Avenue Beach: BBQ grills (open flames), drones (personal or commercial), alcohol, fireworks or explosives, illegal substances or weapons, pop-up tents or canopies, helium balloons, kites, flag poles and all pets, excluding service animals.
Photo Credit: Choose Chicago
